So this guy stops me today and gives me this sob story about how he just moved back to the city from SC and his food stamps and WIC won't kick in for another two weeks. He tells me he doesn't want any money, but asks if I can buy him baby formula and some food. Any time someone doesn't ask for cash but asks for food, I'll give in and get it for them. So we walk down to CVS and I brought him two cans of baby formula. Thanks blah blah and we go our separate ways.

I tell my husband this, and he refuses to believe it's legit and it must be a scam.

he'll resell the formula to a corner store for 25% of what you paid for it. He'll buy drugs with the cash and enjoy his sammy before he smokes his bowl or shoots up.... food stamps would be issued as an emergency dispersion after he signed up in his situation, WIC will print the checks for you right there in their office. They won't make an infant wait for formula, even in a special circumstance, they'll give you a check for a can or two until the issues are resolved.

YES! Jesus. You live in Philly. NEVER EVER give money to people on the street, and that includes fungible goods. If you want to exercise your affluent guilt, donate to a reputable charity. There are plenty to choose from.